HELP! Ethical dilemma concerning cheating

[RN in 10!]

I'm a first semester student who just passed my Skills II practicum. We sign a confidentiality agreement agreeing not to discuss the skill we were tested over. Apparently, there were multiple violations of the confidentiality code and we were asked to come forward with any information we might have. Now, everyone in the class has to retake the practicum with only one chance to pass. The first one I passed is now null and void. I'm so angry that I have this added stress right during finals.

I personally did not know of anyone cheating but there were a few people who made comments such as "I failed the practicum because I forgot to aspirate" (that narrows the skills down to either an IM injection or NG tube feeding). Is this considered cheating?

My biggest concern is that one student asked me which instructor I had for my skill and I told her the instructor's name. She then said she knew what my skill was and she was right! She asked me if I had "XYZ" skill and I told her I was not allowed to discuss it. She then told me that "Oh well, word gets out" so obviously someone told her the specific skill. The thing is she had already failed the practicum by the time we had this conversation so I'm not sure if I should come forward to the instructor with what I know. At this point it doesn't change the fact that we all need to retake the test, but I'm also feeling responsible for having this information. Does any of this make sense?

Any input would be appreciated - I have worked so hard to get into this program and I don't want to screw it up!

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

Seems to me your getting the short end of the stick. How can they penalize the whole class when its obvious that not everyone was in on it. As far as someone coming up to you asking questions, you handled it well. You gave no details telling her that you couldn't talk about it. If anyone fails, seems they might have grounds for appeal considering the cheating was done after you passed. Doesn't make much sense. The instructor should change the way she does check outs. We have to be hush hush regarding our SIM and the whole thing is rediculous! I don't give info out afterwards, but the whole scenario seems stupid. I was in the 1st group for SIM back at the beginning of the semester and I heard the instructor is telling the students now that they are doing much better than the girst group. Hmm, wonder why!!! Students talk which is just the way it is. If instructors don't like it and can't trust students, they should adapt the curriculum

[Jules A, MSN]

It does stink that you have to retake the skill test but just get through it and move on. I wouldn't be too worried about the other student implicating you especially because your explanation sounds very reasonable. Hang in there, Jules

[Fermin Hernandez, ADN, ASN, RN]

Ignore it and focus on your studies.

I ignore drama, crying, or any such nonsense from fellow students. I may not be popular, but I'm not there to be homecoming king.

[RN in 10!]

Thank you for the moral support! I'm going to focus on studying for finals, review the practicum info and move forward.

Thanks again!

:wink2:

[Fermin Hernandez, ADN, ASN, RN]

Wanted to clarify that not all crying is bad. There are many times when it is acceptable to me (we see sad stuff). I was referring to stress/drama crying...

[RN in 10!]

No worries :nuke:

You gave great advise - I need to focus on being a successful nursing student and being sucked into classroom drama isn't going to help.

Thanks again!